Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski celebrates after scoring his side’s opening goal during a Spanish La Liga soccer match between Osasuna and Barcelona in Pamplona, Spain, Saturday, May 2, 2026. (AP Photo/Miguel Oses)
BARCELONA, Spain — Prolific scorer Robert Lewandowski will leave Barcelona at the tip of the season, the Spanish club said Saturday.
The Poland striker, who turns 38 in August, was widely expected to be on the move together with his contract set to run out.
Lewandowski joined Barcelona from Bayern on a forty five million euro ($52 million) transfer in 2022, when his recent club was in serious financial trouble and still reeling from the exit of Lionel Messi. Lewandowski was seen as a key piece of its rebuilding effort.
He went on to assist Barcelona win three Spanish league titles in 4 seasons, including this campaign, and one Copa del Rey, while scoring a formidable 119 goals in 191 appearances.
“After 4 years stuffed with challenges and labor, it’s time to maneuver on. I leave with the sensation that the mission is complete,” Lewandowski wrote on Instagram.
Lewandowski didn’t say in his message what’s next for his profession. He has been linked with a move to Juventus or to leagues outside Europe.
Lewandowski lost the status of being the undisputed first-choice striker for Barcelona coach Hansi Flick this season, as the previous Bayern coach often preferred the speed and hustle of the younger Ferran Torres.
Lamine Yamal, who has played on Lewandowski’s right, praised his attack partner.
“Thanks for every little thing, to your goals, your leadership, and for believing in me since day one,” Yamal wrote on Instagram. “I learned a lot from you, on and off the pitch. You’ll at all times be a legend.”
Barcelona has two games left this season. It hosts Real Betis on Sunday and visits Valencia on May 23.
Your subscription couldn’t be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.